ふなや

Funaya is the oldest ryokan in the Dogo Onsen area, boasting a history of nearly 390 years. It is known as a literary inn where famous writers such as Natsume Soseki and Masaoka Shiki once stayed, and it has also served as an imperial family lodging. Despite its long history, Funaya has been innovative, introducing Matsuyama’s first indoor ryokan pool and Western-style cuisine. The ryokan features two large public baths: the Hinoki Bath made from ancient cypress wood and the Mikage Bath made from Iyo-Oshima granite, with a gender rotation allowing guests to enjoy both. The property includes the 1,500-tsubo Japanese garden “”Eifutei,”” where a free footbath is open to non-guests as well. From late March to late October, guests can dine along the Mitarai River flowing through the garden. The main house displays Akira Yamaguchi’s artwork “”Bujinto,”” originally exhibited during Dogo Onsen Art events. Certain art rooms can be viewed by non-guests during daytime hours for a fee, making Funaya a cultural as well as a lodging landmark.